Vermonters Support Smoking Limits and Bans in Outdoor Public Spaces

A phone survey of more than 400 Vermonters conducted by ICF Macro for the Vermont Department of Health shows that there is strong support for limiting or banning smoking in outdoor public places:

• 95 would ban (80) or limit (15) smoking at building entryways.

• 81 support a ban on smoking in motor vehicles when children are present.

• 69 said they would be likely to choose housing with smoke-free policies over housing without such policies. (52 said they would be extremely likely, and 17 said they would be likely).

• 51 favor limiting smoking at parks and beaches, and 29 favor a ban on smoking at parks and beaches.

• 51 support a ban on smoking at outdoor marketplaces, while 29 prefer some limitations on smoking at outdoor markets.

The survey was conducted in April 2012.

“The dangers of secondhand smoke are well understood and smoke-free policies are now widely accepted. This is good news for the health of Vermonters,” said Health Commissioner Harry Chen, MD. “We also know most smokers want to quit – and The Vermont Quit Network can help.”

Quitting smoking has almost immediate health benefits. Vermonters who want support to quit can call or visit The Vermont Quit Network at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or vtquitnetwork.org.

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